“Big Barrel’ refers to Steve’s unique roll fermentation method in big, 1000 litre French oak fudres. This results in agentle extraction of colour and tannins from the grapes and gives the wine’s magnificent texture. The picturesque hillside site in Marlborough’s Southern Whither Hill where the grapes for this wine are grown is a true hidden gem; a tiny block that's just right for a family operation like Steve Bird Wines. Here, it has produced a genuinely impressive Pinot Noir with earthy, spicy notes in support of the rich, dark-fruit aromas. On the palate it is deeply flavoured and lushly textured with supple, silky tannins. This is a superb partner for crispy duck breast. Variety: 100 percent Pinot Noir

A classic Fromm Vineyard Pinot Noir, a multi-layered wine, very concentrated without appearing big or heavy, with positive tannin support. At its best it shows a masculine charm with a distinct terroir-related identity, aging superbly.

Cloudy Bay Chardonnay is a reflection of its sunny origin, expressing intense aromas of peaches, nectarines, aromatic herbs and biscuit. A light entry of stone fruit becomes a slippery mid-palate that re-focuses to an aromatic and mineral finish.

Fromm's passion for Pinot Noir is reflected in the attention to detail shown in the vineyard and throughout the winemaking process. Carefully selected clones and rootstocks, together with intensive vineyard care and low cropping, means the vines produce fruit that illustrates the terroir in which they were grown. Today in the Fromm stable of vineyards there are eleven clones, 4000 - 5000 vines per hectare, with crop levels around five to six tonnes per hectare. The blend which makes up each years La Strada Pinot Noir by Fromm depends on what nature has given in each of their vineyards. Invariably, the wine is strongly varietal, fruity and has immediate appeal.

Nanny Goat Vineyard is the clear leader of the pack when it comes to affordable Central Otago Pinot Noir. Made in a fruit forward style with mounds of fresh berry fruit and intense lifted perfume notes of violet and blueberry. Still medium-bodied on the palate with soft, powdery tannin, this is a Pinot for the moment.

Full bodied with trademark rose petal and lychee flavours joined by spices and marmalade complete with long finish.

One of the most anticipated releases from Marlborough shows a rich aromatic bouquet and a palate brimming with passionfruit, gooseberry and melon fruit flavours and herbs. Partial barrel fermentation imparts creamy undertones and complexity.

Kellermeister Alicante Bouchet is an exotic and unique red-fleshed grape variety which produces a bright refreshing wine bursting with flavours of ripe fresh berries balanced with a hint of sweet spice. The perfect accompaniment to lazy weekend afternoons by itself, or with spicy and aromatic flavours, seafood, or piquant salads. Chill well and enjoy!

A true favourite in the world of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Giesen produces a brilliant style here with their flagship 'The Brothers'. Hints of tropical on the nose and palate, but with fantastic texture and mouth feel to separate it from the crowd.

Central Otago Pinot's are generally more user-friendly than Burgundy; Rabbit Ranch is very soft fruit-forward style with soft tannins; best enjoyed young.